By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Gunmen abducted and killed Ojo Abbey in Isua Akoko, Ondo State, on February 22, 2026, while he returned from Ibilo in Edo State. The attackers reportedly seized him along the Ondo–Edo boundary and later murdered him in a forest in Igara. Police confirmed the incident on Sunday and announced the arrest of one suspect linked to the crime.
The victim, popularly known as Obesere, served as a youth leader in the community.
How the Abduction Happened
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, a resident reported the incident at about 7:45 p.m. on February 22, 2026.
The resident said armed men, suspected to be herdsmen, abducted Abbey while he travelled back to Isua from Ibilo, Edo State.
Immediately after the report, the Divisional Police Officer mobilised patrol teams to the scene. Officers recovered the victim’s Nissan Almera with registration number KJA 440 DB. They secured the vehicle at the station for investigation.
Body Found in Edo Forest
Community sources said the kidnappers moved Abbey to a forest location. Sadly, residents later discovered his decomposing body in a forest in Igara, Edo State, on Saturday.
A resident, Tunji, explained that youths and local hunters launched search operations shortly after the abduction. They combed nearby bushes in a bid to rescue him. However, they later received news of his death.
Police Intensify Security Operations
Jimoh confirmed that police arrested one suspect who now assists investigators.
Furthermore, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, ordered intensified surveillance across the affected communities. He also directed strategic deployments along the Ondo–Edo boundary. The command aims to prevent further attacks and apprehend other fleeing gang members.
“The command commiserates with the family of the deceased and assures the public that the perpetrators will face justice,” Jimoh stated.
Youth Group Demands Government Intervention
Meanwhile, the Isua Youth Forum condemned the killing. The group described the incident as evidence of rising insecurity in Isua and Akoko South-East.
In a statement issued by its National President, Comrade Abimbola Oluwafemi, the forum urged Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to take urgent action.
“We call on the Governor of Ondo State for immediate intervention,” the statement read.
The group also urged the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation.
“Every individual involved must be identified and prosecuted. Justice must be visible to the people of Isua,” the statement added.
Residents now call for stronger security measures to restore peace in the area.
